Food itinerary: Griffintown
Rediscover the fun of Griffintown as you explore its cafés, bakeries, restaurants and other gourmet hot spots. Have fun being a tourist in your own city!
Griffintown
Departure point: Bonaventure métro station
Distance: 4.7 kilometres
Where you can stop to enjoy your snack: On the banks of the Lachine Canal
Mano Cornuto
Hands down, Mano Cornuto is Griffintown’s hippest Italian coffee shop. Whether you’re stopping by for a coffee in the morning, a schiacciata classico at noon or a salad and tapas-style dishes with a glass of natural wine later in the day, you’re always guaranteed a festive mood. This neighbourhood hotspot is sizzling!
What to order: The Schiacciata classico and a Caesar salad. Try the coffee too – it’s totally delish!
988 Ottawa Street
La Bête à Pain
Hmm, let’s see… will it be a ham sandwich, a croissant, a yummy loaf of bread or some of the many other delights that tempt your taste buds? La Bête à Pain has become a hugely popular spot with the people of the neighbourhood. A word of caution, though: don’t go there on an empty stomach, because with its vast selection of breads, pastries, sandwiches and other gourmet creations, you might want to bring one of everything home with you!
What to order: A ham sandwich, a dessert and the Levain bread for chez vous.
195 Young Street
Bar à Beurre
The Bar à Beurre is Griffintown’s new kid on the block. You’ll find all the same delicious treats as in its original Old Montréal shop, which has been open for over 10 years now: butter balls, macaroons, cookies, viennoiseries, cupcakes and a few other sweet daily inspirations. You can even order a custom-made tiered cake and bring your enjoyment to the next level.
What to order: The butter ball, a perennially favourite.
1165 Ottawa Street
Pizzéria La Newyorkaise
With its thin and crackly crust, savoury sauce and hot gooey cheese, we simply can’t get enough of this New York-style pizza. On top of it all, at 22 inches, it’s absolutely gigantic! Order one or two slices to devour along your way. Its winning combination of a light crust and extra-fresh toppings always leaves you wanting seconds!
What to order: The Margherita and the Gorgonzola/mushroom pizza.
309 De la Montagne Street
Le Trou Bagel
What would Montréal be without its bagels? Or, for that matter, what would Griffintown be without its bagels? Opened in 2019 by a lovely couple who clearly saw the need for this Montréal staple in the city’s south end, Le Trou captured the hearts of the people of this neighbourhood and it has even attracted fans from adjacent districts. Though tiny, this little shop packs a big punch, from the gorgeous fresco that greets you the minute you walk through the door to the open kitchen, where you watch bagels being expertly fashioned. Sink your teeth into one of its many tasty varieties!
What to order: A half a dozen bagels, a container of cream cheese, a pack of artisanal smoked salmon (from Charlevoix) to enjoy at home, plus a half-dozen stuffed bagel holes for the road.
1845 William Street
Café GotSoul
This café is not only for coffee lovers, but music lovers too. Owner Jojo Flores wanted to recreate the cool vibe of a listening café like those you find London or New York. And with summer temperatures rising, he’ll be heating things up as he spins on his turntable. If you’re an audiophile, you definitely want to check out his extensive collection of vinyls.
What to order: A coffee and some treats inspired by the Philippines.
1970 Notre-Dame Street West
Richmond Italian Market
On your way back, be sure to stop by the Richmond Italian market to discover local and Italian artisanal products. Browse its wide range of imported gourmet goodies that range from tomato sauces to olive oils as well as the in-house chef’s creations.
What to order: A few fine products for your own cooking, some ready-to-eat dishes so you don’t have to cook for the next few days and a tiramisu.
333 Richmond Street
Brasseur de Montréal
If you have a beer lover in your midst, you’ll definitely want to check out Brasseur de Montréal. Relax with a cold one on its terrasse before setting out with a selection of your favourites.
What to order: A case of the “sélection du brasseur” (brewer’s choice) to really appreciate their masterclass brewing.
1485 Ottawa Street
Other suggestions for take-out or a drink: Foxy, Makro, Bird Bar, Shay, Junior, Perles et Paddock, Candide, Chez Sophie.
Tommy Dion
Tommy is the founder of the blog and gourmet guide Le Cuisinomane, whose mission is to showcase Québec’s local products and gastronomy. With an in-depth knowledge of Montréal’s food scene, his expertise and professionalism make him a trusted source for all the best food spots and experiences in Montréal. In addition to tasting and writing about food, Tommy also creates content for brand, always related to food and gastronomy.